The discovery, confirmed by the National Museum of Costa Rica, was made in Cartago province, east of San José, after a member of the public reported possible fossil remains on private property.

A discovery of great scientific significance

Preliminary studies have identified the remains as belonging to two species of Pleistocene megafauna: a mastodon of the genus Cuvieronius and a giant sloth of the genus Eremotherium. Both animals were among the large mammals that inhabited the Americas before their extinction thousands of years ago.

Geological analyses of the terrain and sediment layers indicate the fossils date back between 10,000 and 40,000 years. So far, 13 excavations have yielded 49 fossil specimens, including vertebrae, a femur, phalanges, ribs, and other bone fragments still under study.

Because of the size and quantity of the recovered material, this discovery ranks among the most significant recorded in the country in recent decades

An interdisciplinary effort

The fossil recovery effort is being led by geologist Joanna Méndez of the Department of Natural History, with support from cultural heritage conservation specialists.

The project also involves geologists, archaeologists, biologists, students from the University of Costa Rica, and a paleontology expert from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, reflecting the international and collaborative nature of the research.

A look into Costa Rica’s prehistoric past

This finding underscores Costa Rica’s importance in regional megafauna research. During the Late Pleistocene, the territory now known for its rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches was also home to enormous land animals that roamed its plains and valleys.

The recent international attention on this topic, spurred by publications such as The Mysterious Megafauna of Costa Rica’s Prehistoric Past by journalist Maria Faith Saligumba in Discover Wildlife Science, has helped shed light on a little-known chapter in the country’s natural history.

More than a discovery: identity and science

For Costa Rica, this discovery is more than a scientific curiosity. It broadens the country’s narrative, which is globally known for its rich biodiversity, including species such as scarlet macaws, tapirs, and sea turtles, by revealing a past inhabited by a much larger and more diverse array of wildlife.

The Minister of Culture and Youth, Jorge Rodríguez, announced that a permanent exhibition space will be set up at the museum to display these and other paleontological finds, bringing the public closer to this fascinating chapter in the nation’s history.

This makes Costa Rica not only a leader in conservation and eco-tourism, but also a key region for understanding prehistoric life in Central America.

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A natural… and strategic refuge

First documented by European explorers in the 16th century, Cocos Island quickly became a key stop along Pacific shipping routes. Its abundant fresh water, biodiversity, and sheltered geography made it an ideal place for ships to restock after long voyages. It is no surprise that pirates, buccaneers, and privateers used it as a refuge during the 17th and 18th centuries.

However, what truly made the island famous was not its practical use, but the stories that began to circulate about it.

The legendary treasure of Lima

The most famous of all these legends is that of the so-called “Lima Treasure.” According to the story, around 1820, during the wars of independence in South America, the Spanish viceroy in Lima decided to evacuate an enormous fortune to prevent it from falling into the hands of the revolutionaries. This treasure supposedly included gold objects, jewels, coins, and even a life-size statue of the Virgin Mary made of solid gold.

The cargo was trusted to Captain William Thompson, who was to transport it to a safe place. However, legend has it that Thompson and his crew murdered the Spanish guards, changed course toward Cocos Island, buried the treasure, and disappeared. Although Thompson was later captured, he managed to escape on the island before revealing the exact location of the loot. Since then, the treasure has never been recovered.

Expeditions, obsessions, and failures

During the 19th and 20th centuries, numerous adventurers attempted to find the treasure. Among them was August Gissler, a German who tried to colonize the island in the 1890s. Although his project failed, he remained there for years searching for the treasure without success.

Even well-known figures were drawn to the mystery. Former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited the island several times during the 1930s. The British explorer Malcolm Campbell also funded an expedition, while other explorers claimed to have clues or maps that never led to any concrete results.

The pattern of these expeditions was almost always the same: high expectations, extreme conditions, and no significant discoveries. It receives more than seven meters of rain a year, has dense vegetation, and difficult terrain, making any excavation extremely difficult.

Protection and the current reality

Over time, the Costa Rican government decided to put an end to the unregulated excavations that were damaging the ecosystem. Today, Cocos Island is a protected national park where excavating or disturbing the environment is strictly prohibited. Most visitors are divers drawn to its extraordinary marine life, including hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays.

Myth or reality?

The authenticity of the Treasure of Lima remains a subject of debate. Some historians believe the story is an exaggeration or even a fabrication, due to the lack of colonial records supporting the transfer of such wealth. Others, however, argue that the very absence of documents could indicate that it was a secret operation.

Regardless of its authenticity, the legend has been powerful enough to stand the test of time, inspiring books, documentaries, and theories.

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This year, the festival will take place on April 10, 11, and 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. More than 300,000 people are expected to attend and enjoy the talent of over 200 national artists and groups across various venues in downtown San José.

Outstanding spaces and activities

This year, Transitarte is expanding its reach to include more areas, each offering unique experiences:

• Plaza de la Democracia: This will be a family-friendly space featuring sports activities, inflatable attractions, traditional and board games, early childhood enrichment programs, and an outdoor movie theater.
• New boulevard on Avenida Central: It will feature a mobile stage for theatrical performances and booths for local businesses.
• Parque Nacional: It will feature nearly 90 market stalls, the main concert stage, environmental education workshops, a café, various activities, and food trucks.
• Parque España: will feature 18 literary booths, municipal libraries, electronic music, and food options.
• Parque Morazán: It will feature concerts, a barter market, circular economy initiatives, animal welfare activities, and food trucks.
• Paseo de las Damas: It will be the gathering place for swing criollo and parades on Saturday and Sunday.

New ideas and experiences

Among the most notable new features of 2026 are the food markets, with more than 240 spaces including food trucks and outdoor dining areas, significantly expanding the range of options available to attendees.

Also, the festival will present 34 artistic performances spanning genres such as urban music, electronic music, calypso, and contemporary fusions, along with live shows by national artists.

The popular swing and bolero stage, with a capacity of 500 people, is also returning, celebrating traditional rhythms such as swing criollo, bolero, salsa, and cumbia. In addition, there will be areas dedicated to:

• Urban and Rap Stage
• Electronic stage
• Performing arts
• Literary Walk
• Startup Market
• Swap market
• Educational workshops
• Outdoor movie theater
• Playgrounds
• Animal welfare, recreation, and sports activities

Concerts and the festival’s closing ceremony

Each day will conclude with performances by renowned national groups such as Sonámbulo, Los Ajenos, and Malpaís, among other guest artists.

The closing event of Transitarte 2026 will take place at La Sabana Metropolitan Park, featuring an international concert that has yet to be announced, generating great anticipation among the public.

Safety and logistics

To keep everyone safe, the event will have a comprehensive security plan in place, including:

• More than 140 municipal police officers
• Medical assistance zones
• Six hydration stations
• Restroom stalls
• Information points

As well, road closures will be in effect starting Friday and will remain in place until Sunday at 1:00 a.m., so attendees are advised to plan their routes in advance.

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This development has excited not only conservationists but also travelers, as it allows them to enjoy the experience before peak season. As a result, new slots for small-group guided night tours have already been made available, offering a unique opportunity to observe these marine giants without the crowds.

A different season: less people, more nature

Unlike the better-known green sea turtles that dominate headlines later in the year, leatherback turtles arrive first. According to SINAC, their season in Tortuguero runs from March to June, while in Cahuita the peak typically occurs between March and April.

Organizations such as the Sea Turtle Conservancy highlight Tortuguero as one of the key nesting sites for this species, underscoring the importance of this natural phenomenon.

For those seeking a more intimate experience with nature, the months of March through May, especially April, are the best time to visit. It’s a quieter time of year, ideal for those who want to avoid crowds and experience wildlife in a more authentic way.

Night tours: a safe and responsible experience

Turtle watching is available exclusively through guided night tours, designed to minimize the impact on the animals. These tours are scheduled at specific times, generally between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m., and last between 1.5 and 2 hours.

Small groups, typically of up to 10 people, are organized, and they only go out when a tracker confirms that a turtle is actively present on the beach. This controlled system ensures both the protection of the species and a more respectful and rewarding experience for visitors.

Why is the leatherback turtle so special?

The leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is the largest of all sea turtles. It can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and measure nearly 8 feet in length.

Unlike other species, it does not have a hard shell, but rather a flexible, leathery structure. It is also an extraordinary traveler: it can cross entire oceans and dive to remarkable depths, eventually returning to the very beach where it was born.

In the coast of Costa Rica, these turtles nest individually, unlike the massive “arribadas” of olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast, making every sighting an intimate and almost magical moment.

Practical tips for your visit

• Book in advance: Night tours tend to sell out quickly. We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance.
• Best time to visit: After sunset, between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m.
• What to bring: Closed-toe shoes (you’ll be walking on sand), insect repellent, and comfortable clothing.
• Where to stay: Tortuguero, ideal for direct access to the nesting beaches. Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, more laid-back options with opportunities for excursions.
• Estimated cost: Between $35 and $60 per person, including a guide and park admission.
• Preservation rules:
  • Do not use flash.
  • Do not touch the turtles or their eggs.
  • Maintain complete silence.
  • Restricted to red light only.

The perfect opportunity after Easter

This early start makes the period after Easter an ideal time to visit Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. The beaches are not yet crowded, as they will be between July and October, when green sea turtles arrive in large numbers.

For eco-conscious travelers, photographers, and families, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature in a responsible way, while supporting the work of local guides and conservation projects that protect these ancient species.

Costa Rica reminds us once again why it is one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations for ecotourism.

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This special program transforms the traditional tour into a dynamic, engaging, and interactive experience. Throughout the activity, the endearing characters Tino and Don Carlos guide visitors through the museum’s spaces, sharing stories, anecdotes, and memories that bring moments from the past to life in an entertaining and immersive way.

More than just a visit, it offers an emotional connection to history, turning each room into a stage where knowledge is shared through storytelling and interaction.

Dates and Schedule

The guided tours will take place on the following dates:

• Saturdays, March 21 and 28 at 4:00 p.m.
• Saturday, April 18: 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Sunday, April 19: 10:00 a.m.
• Saturday, April 25: 10:00 a.m.

Performance details for April: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

• Saturday, April 18, 2026
• Sunday, April 19, 2026
• Saturday, April 25, 2026

Important Information

The event is free, but requires advance registration.
Registration: visitaguiadamuseo@gmail.com

This in-person event is ideal for all ages and perfect for those looking to learn in a different way while enjoying an enriching cultural experience.

A museum where history comes alive

Located on the north side of Alajuela’s Central Park, the museum is a key institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the 1856–1857 National Campaign against the filibuster invasion.

Founded on December 4, 1974, the museum is housed in two historic buildings: the former Alajuela prison and the Old Barracks, which today hold valuable collections of art, history, and culture. The museum is named after national hero Juan Santamaría, whose legacy has been fundamental to the country’s identity. Since its creation, the institution has been dedicated to recovering, preserving, and sharing this historical heritage, keeping it alive in the nation’s collective memory.

It also promotes cultural development in Alajuela through artistic, educational, and heritage activities that bring history closer to the community in an accessible and meaningful way.

The museum is currently under the direction of María Otárola Luna.

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Led by the Costa Rican Federation of Sport Fishing (FECOP) and supported by the commitment of local communities, this approach aims to protect marine resources while strengthening the regional economy.

Barra del Colorado: A Top Destination for Tarpon Fishing

Located in a remote area rich in biodiversity, Barra del Colorado is considered one of the world’s best destinations for tarpon fishing. Every year, sport fishermen from around the globe visit the region, drawn by its legendary tarpon runs.

This international recognition has made sport fishing one of the main drivers of the local economy.

FECOP is leading efforts toward responsible fishing

As part of these efforts, FECOP recently organized a strategic meeting at the renowned Silver King Lodge, bringing together fishing captains, scientists, professional fishermen, and instructors from the National Coast Guard.

During the event, a number of key topics were discussed, including:

• Updated regulations on sport fishing
• Safety protocols at sea
• Best practices in sustainable fishing
• Conservation based on scientific evidence

The main objective was to bring all stakeholders together under a common vision: to protect the fishery and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Silver King Lodge: History and Tradition in Sport Fishing

The Silver King Lodge not only hosted the event but also stands as a symbol of the history of sport fishing in Costa Rica. For decades, this lodge has been a gathering place for anglers from around the world, contributing significantly to the tourism and economic development of Barra del Colorado.

Its legacy is deeply intertwined with the region’s growth as an international fishing

Conservation and the economy: two inseparable pillars

One of the key messages of the meeting was clear: a healthy fishery is essential to the local economy.

Sport fishing tourism generates jobs and income for:

• Captains and guides
• Lodges and accommodations
• Transportation services
• Local businesses

For this reason, practices such as catch-and-release, proper management of species, and compliance with regulations are essential to ensuring the sustainability of the resource.

Inclusion in Sport Fishing: The Role of Women

FECOP is also working toward a more inclusive future through its fishing school for women. This program aims to train young women to become captains and sailors, opening up new job opportunities in a sector historically dominated by men.

This initiative not only promotes gender equality, but also strengthens community development and diversifies the industry.

A sustainable model for Costa Rica and the world

The efforts underway in Barra del Colorado are establishing the region as a national and international model of responsible sport fishing.

Thanks to collaboration among organizations, scientists, and local communities, it has been demonstrated that:

• Environmental conservation and economic growth can coexist.
• Sustainable sport fishing is a real tool for development
• Collaboration is key to protecting marine resources

The future of sport fishing in Costa Rica

As these initiatives continue to evolve, Barra del Colorado is emerging as a model that can be replicated by other coastal communities in Costa Rica and beyond.

By striking a balance between tradition, science, and collaboration, the country reaffirms its position as a leader in sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

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However, despite the abundance of wildlife, spotting many of these animals in the wild can be a rare experience. This is where technology opens a new window into nature.

A new way to discover wildlife

Thanks to the use of camera traps equipped with state-of-the-art motion sensors, it is possible to capture high-definition footage of animals in their natural habitat. This innovative technology makes it possible to document the behavior, habits, and presence of species that would otherwise be virtually invisible to the human eye.

The footage is carefully sorted and edited, allowing for the production of high-quality audiovisual content. This material can be shared on websites, social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, or any other platform the client wishes to use.

Solutions for developers, real estate, and hotels

Wildlife monitoring has not only scientific value, but also commercial and tourism value. For developers, real estate agents, and hotels, this technology represents a unique opportunity to highlight the natural value of their properties.

Customized packages are available, including:

• Continuous monitoring of biodiversity on the property
• Creation of up-to-date audiovisual databases
• High-definition video production for promotional purposes
• Integrating content into websites and social media
• Video displays in common areas, such as reception areas

They can also design unique tourist experiences where guests take part in guided hikes to get a firsthand look at the scientific process of monitoring with camera traps.

Education for future generations

One of the cornerstones of this project is environmental education. We develop educational programs for schools, homeschool groups, and community organizations, with the aim of inspiring a passion for conservation in children and young people.

Through hands-on activities and field studies, participants learn about technology, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting ecosystems. These initiatives have already been implemented at institutions such as La Paz Community School and the Matapalo School.

Research and conservation

Wildlife monitoring also plays a crucial role in scientific research. Partnerships are fostered with private sanctuaries, researchers, national parks, and government agencies to develop comprehensive monitoring programs across the country.

Between the most notable collaborations are projects carried out with the Tempisque Conservation Area (ACT) and several of its protected areas.

Featured Projects

Over the years, wildlife monitoring has enabled the development of important initiatives in collaboration with organizations, communities, and tourism projects across Costa Rica.

Fondo de Biodiversidad Sostenible

The Fondo de Biodiversidad Sostenible (FBS), a program of the Banco Ambiental Foundation, works to conserve private lands by offering financial incentives to landowners who protect forests in various regions of the country. In one of the first projects carried out in Guanacaste, a wide variety of species were recorded, including jaguars, tapirs, and wild pigs.

Mi Laboratorio Científico: Matapalo y su Bosque

In 2019, the Matapalo School won one of the top prizes in the Fabricando Sueños contest, organized by Fundación Gente. Its proposal, focused on the use of camera traps as an educational tool, received funding of 5,000,000 CRC. The project included training sessions, field trips, and the creation of audiovisual materials for the analysis of local wildlife, with ongoing volunteer support.

Hacienda Pinilla

Located between Playa Avellanas and Tamarindo, this 4,500-acre property features tropical dry forests, rivers, and lagoons. Monitoring programs have made it possible to document a wide variety of species on the property.

Costa Elena

This development, spanning more than 4,000 acres on the northern Pacific coast of Guanacaste, borders the Guanacaste Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its natural surroundings are home to a wide variety of wildlife in tropical dry forest ecosystems.

Las Ventanas, Playa Grande

Las Ventanas is a 380-acre gated community located between Playa Grande and Playa Conchal. Its ocean-view properties border Las Baulas Marine National Park, making it an ideal setting for wildlife monitoring.

Las Catalinas

This coastal town under development is surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of tropical dry forest. The monitoring effort aims to document years of conservation work and the biodiversity found in the area.

Hotel Sugar Beach

Located in Potrero, Guanacaste, this hotel is set on a 25-acre property of tropical dry forest. The ongoing project aims to create an inventory of species as part of its commitment to sustainability.

La Paz Community School

This nonprofit bilingual school, located in Brasilito, is partnering to establish an extracurricular club focused on wildlife and technology, where students explore biodiversity using camera traps.

Monkey Park Foundation

Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Portegolpe, where a monitoring project has been underway since 2014. To date, more than 70 different species have been documented on the property.

Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Hacienda El Viejo

This 2,812-acre private preserve, located near Philadelphia, is part of an annual study focused on wildlife monitoring, contributing to the area’s 10-year management plan.

Wildlife video licensing

For documentary filmmakers, filmmakers, and content producers, there is an extensive library containing thousands of hours of high-resolution footage. From interactions among coatis to the unique behaviors of armadillos and white-faced monkeys, this material offers an invaluable resource for audiovisual productions.

Global reach and opportunities for collaboration

Although many projects are being carried out in Guanacaste, we are open to establishing partnerships in other regions of Costa Rica and even internationally. The invitation is open to any individual or organization interested in exploring the potential of wildlife monitoring.

For more information or to request a free, customized quote, please contact us by email: info@guanacastewildlifemonitoring.com

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The new bridge is 137.8 feet long and rises up to 65.6 feet above the forest floor. Its pedestrian deck consists of 54 clear glass panels, each 0.79 inches thick, designed to support more than 204.8 pounds per square foot, allowing visitors to enjoy a direct view of the cloud forest beneath their feet. The suspended structure weighs nearly 6,000 pounds and is supported by two main cables, each one inch thick.

The Glass Bridge: the new attraction

The project follows a complete renovation of a previous structure on the site. According to Treetopia, the bridge was redesigned following a structural analysis aimed at improving safety, performance, and aesthetics. Materials such as stainless steel were used to ensure durability in Monteverde’s humid and demanding conditions. The total investment for the project amounts to $400,000.

The opening of the bridge adds a new attraction to a park already established as one of Monteverde’s most renowned adventure destinations. Treetopia’s Sky Walk trail continues the tradition of suspension bridge tourism in Costa Rica, which began in 1997, and currently features six suspension bridges along approximately 1.7 miles of trails. The longest bridge spans 774 feet.

Monteverde Sky Walk

The glass bridge is included in the standard Sky Walk admission ticket, with no additional charge. This is particularly important in Monteverde, where visitors often compare parks based on the number of experiences they can enjoy in a single visit. In addition, Treetopia operates the TreeTram cable car, described as the only one in the Monteverde cloud forest, along with the Sky Trek zip-line circuit and the tree-top adventure course.

In Monteverde, this new attraction enhances the area’s signature blend of wildlife viewing, cloud forest scenery, and adventure experiences. The attraction stands out for offering a unique perspective: walking directly above the treetops on transparent glass.

The opening coincides with Holy Week, one of the busiest periods for domestic tourism. Treetopia invites both local residents and international visitors to experience the new bridge as part of its offerings in Monteverde, confident that the combination of panoramic forest views and the sensation of walking over the void will be a unique selling point in one of Costa Rica’s most competitive adventure destinations.

• Website: www.treetopiapark.com
• Reservations: +506 4000-7292
• WhatsApp: https://wa.me/50684101234
• Email: info@treetopiapark.com

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Although officially beginning on Palm Sunday, the country starts winding down several days earlier. By Wednesday, most institutions and businesses have closed or reduced operations, signaling the start of a lull that contrasts sharply with the heavy traffic on the roads.

Religious tradition: the heart in Cartago

As offices close, thousands of people leave the Central Valley for beaches, mountains, and small towns. Travel times to the Pacific coast can double, and the return trip on Sunday faces the same traffic congestion in the opposite direction. Planning your trip is key to avoiding delays.

Cartago becomes the spiritual heart of the country. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels draws pilgrims throughout the week, especially on Good Friday, when solemn and deeply meaningful processions take place.

In San José and other cities such as Heredia, Alajuela, and Grecia, the celebrations take on a more intimate and approachable character, with Stations of the Cross reenactments and other religious activities held throughout the week.

The Holy Week Garden is a centuries-old tradition that blends Indigenous and Spanish heritage. It involves offering agricultural products as a tribute to God. This custom reflects the Indigenous roots of Costa Ricans, as pre-Columbian cultures would present offerings to their gods in gratitude for the harvest and to pray for the year ahead. The Spanish later adapted this practice to Holy Week, creating gardens that commemorate the moment when Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. Costa Ricans place fruits, vegetables, corn, and other items on altars set up throughout the cities, typically between Tuesday and Good Friday.

Beaches in the peak season

In contrast, destinations such as Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Sámara, and Guanacaste take on a completely different vibe. Entire families gather along the coast in a lively, festive atmosphere, filled with music, food, and joyful camaraderie.

Hotel occupancy reaches its peak during this period, making it not the time for solitude, but rather an opportunity to experience the country at its liveliest.

More laid-back options

For those looking to avoid the crowds, mountainous areas such as Monteverde, Cerro de la Muerte, and the Chirripó region offer a more relaxed pace. In addition, national parks and wildlife refuges remain open, providing spaces where nature continues its usual rhythm, unaffected by the holiday.

Tips for a worry-free trip

Planning ahead is essential: booking accommodations, transportation, and activities well before mid-March is highly recommended. It’s also advisable to travel before Wednesday or return after Sunday to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Other important considerations include long lines at gas stations, ATMs running low on cash in tourist areas, and alcohol regulations that, while technically in place, are enforced inconsistently.

Beyond the logistics, Holy Week reveals the true essence of Costa Rica. It is a time when the country comes to a standstill, comes together, and celebrates its traditions without adjusting for visitors. Embracing this rhythm is the key to a truly memorable experience.

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The initiative is part of the “Costa Rica: A Country of Flavors to Discover” strategy, launched by the ICT in 2022, and aims to position gastronomy as a key driver of tourism. Through this culinary route, it invites both domestic and international visitors to discover the country’s cultural richness through its traditional recipes, local ingredients, and culinary practices.

For nearly two months, Costa Rican chef Carlos Alpízar traveled across different regions of the country, collaborating with local cooks to create various versions of picadillo. Each dish reflects the identity of its community, using locally sourced ingredients and techniques passed down from generation to generation.

“The Picadillo Route”

According to the ICT, gastronomy has established itself as one of the main reasons for traveling.

Cuisine is the second most important reason people travel and an essential part of the travel experience, as it offers a window into a country’s culture and traditions.

The series showcases everyday settings, ranging from wood-fired kitchens and family homes to local cafés and restaurants. In each episode, in addition to demonstrating how the dishes are prepared, it shares stories, knowledge, and techniques aimed at preserving Costa Rican culinary traditions and fostering pride in local cuisine.

A culinary journey across the country

The route highlights a wide variety of picadillos, each with its own unique regional flair. In the South Pacific, specifically in Uvita, Alpízar prepared a bamboo picadillo with chorizo alongside cooks Marlon Acuña and Lupita Abarca. In Cartago, he worked with chef Luis Chaves to create a malanga picadillo with osso buco.

In Guanacaste, in the community of Corralillo de Nicoya, Marta Rosales shared her traditional recipe for chilote stew with dough. In Heredia, Karla Salas prepared a heart of palm stew, while in Alajuela, Floribeth Araya made an arracache stew with potatoes and meat, a dish typical of local cuisine.

The tour also included the province of Limón, where the production team visited the indigenous community of Suretka in Talamanca. There, Rafael Cabraca prepared a dish of green plantains, pork, and monkey-tail fern over an open fire, highlighting the cultural richness of the indigenous peoples.

The experience culminates at the Central Market in San José, where the cooks at the Flor del Carmen soda prepare the classic potato picadillo with chicasquil, served like every dish along the route with handmade corn tortillas.

More than just recipes: identity and memory

The Picadillo Route is a collection not only of recipes, but also of stories, small snapshots of what Costa Rica is, its cuisine, and what it could become. It shows that the country still has many flavors waiting to be discovered.

Through this initiative, the ICT aims not only to attract tourists but also to preserve and promote the country’s culinary heritage, recognizing the cultural value of culinary traditions and their role in shaping national identity.

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